Respiratory Therapist Life Videos:

Here’s a brief list of what Respiratory Therapists do:

Respiratory Assessment: Assessing patients' respiratory status, including lung function, oxygenation levels, and breathing patterns.
Diagnostic Testing: Performing and interpreting diagnostic tests such as spirometry, arterial blood gas analysis, and pulmonary function tests.
Oxygen Therapy: Administering oxygen therapy, including nasal cannula, mask, and mechanical ventilation, to optimize oxygenation and respiratory function.
Ventilator Management: Monitoring and managing mechanical ventilators for patients requiring respiratory support, including adjusting settings and responding to alarms.
Airway Management: Providing airway clearance techniques, suctioning, and assisting with intubation and extubation procedures under the direction of physicians.
Patient Education: Educating patients and caregivers on respiratory conditions, inhaler techniques, breathing exercises, and home care management.
Emergency Response: Responding to respiratory emergencies, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), airway obstruction, and respiratory distress.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Participating in pulmonary rehabilitation programs to help patients improve lung function, endurance, and quality of life through exercise and education.

Here’s how YOU can become one:

High School Education: Start by completing your high school education with a focus on science and mathematics courses. Courses in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and physics will provide a strong foundation.
Bachelor’s Degree (Optional): While not always required, some respiratory therapy programs may prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree. A degree in a science-related field can be beneficial for gaining admission to a respiratory therapy program.

Program Accreditation: Enroll in an accredited Associate of Science in Respiratory Therapy program. Accreditation ensures that the program meets national standards for respiratory therapy education and prepares you for licensure and certification.
Curriculum: Complete coursework in respiratory physiology, pharmacology, cardiopulmonary diseases, patient assessment, mechanical ventilation, and respiratory care procedures.
Clinical Training: Gain hands-on clinical experience through supervised rotations in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. Clinical training is essential for applying theoretical knowledge to patient care and developing practical skills.

Bachelor’s Completion Programs: Consider completing a Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy or a related field to enhance your knowledge and career opportunities. Some respiratory therapists pursue a bachelor’s degree after gaining experience in the field.

Certification Exam: After graduating from an accredited respiratory therapy program, pass the entry-level Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) exam administered by the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC). The CRT exam assesses your knowledge and skills in respiratory therapy practice.
Advanced Practitioner Exam: For career advancement, consider pursuing the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential by passing the NBRC’s Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) exam. The RRT exam is an advanced-level certification that demonstrates your proficiency in respiratory care.

Apply for State Licensure: Obtain licensure as a respiratory therapist through your state’s licensing board. Licensure requirements vary by state but typically include completing an accredited respiratory therapy program, passing the NBRC exams (CRT and/or RRT), and meeting continuing education requirements.
Maintain Licensure: Renew your respiratory therapy license periodically by completing continuing education credits as required by your state.
This is a very brief and general plan. To know your specific academic path for this career please talk to an advisor at the college or program you plan on attending!